23. A More Desirable Strength (Hebrews 12:12-17)

Abstract

The author of Hebrews was trying to persuade his readers to continue following Jesus Christ because some seemed to be on the verge of turning back. Instead of merely communicating the individual believer’s care for himself, he claims that believers must also care for the souls of their fellow Christians. We are expected to care for our fellow runners in this race for God. If one of them falls, we’re there to pick them up. If one of them is headed in the wrong direction, we’re there to bring them back on course. It is not a race we’re supposed to win; it’s a race we’re supposed to finish together. If any of us fails to complete the course, then even those who finish will feel a sense of loss.